Bozeman, Montana SperlingViews

"Great town"

I love Bozeman. It has the best farmer's markets, sense of community, schools and quality of life. I feel really blessed to live here with our family. I can't say enough good about Bozeman. And no sales tax!

I'm a southern transplant here & I've been here for over 12 years. I've lived all over the US. This is my Utopia. (Almost!) But it's not for everyone. The winter is WAY long, but if you enjoy snow, it is the perfect place. The air is very dry, and hot in the summer, although it is a brief season. Most houses do not even have A/C. The college MSU provides a lot of opportunities.
I've seen many young families move in and out over the years, because it is expensive - but still less than most major cities. You are paying for the view. And it's a good one, from almost every neighborhood in the Gallatin Valley you have a 360 view of mountains.
I'm not too worried about this post attracting too many people, because like I said, the winters are LONG, growing season is short, & I've seen a lot of people move away. Bozeman is perfect- for the right people!

(Sorry, this is really quite long and I didn't even get to share all the beauty of my town. Read if you like, I'm sure you'll get the gist of my opinion in the first few paragraphs! :) Have a nice day!!) Where do I begin? There are honestly so many great things to say about Bozeman. Some people like to think that the people here are snobby and rich and rude; and the world isn't perfect, there will always be people in every town that are like this. But the general population is not. We are however helpful, kind, energetic, caring and loving. There are so many non-profits and helping businesses that are eager to help out those who are in need of some extra care, whether they are members of Bozeman's community or they reside elsewhere. Some of these include but are not limited to: Habitat for Humanity, the Food Bank, the Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter, Family Promise, Eagle Mount, various churches, Zoe Women's Center, Hopa Mountain, the HRDC, shelters for the homeless, and so many others! The citizens of Bozeman are always willing to give an extra hand, whether it be to hold a door open for some folks or to help build a home, or any way of providing for those who need it. Bozeman isn't just about the snooty-snoo upscale restaurants and boutiques, while those are fun to spend some time in, we also take care of our fellow people. Bozeman is often thought of as one of the most expensive places to live in Montana, and while there is some truth to this, most people didn't just get their lives handed to them on a silver platter. Bozeman is made up of hardworking diligent people, who worked to get to where they are now. They are able to go beyond providing the necessities for their family, but this does not mean that their children are spoiled or snobby. Speaking from experience, in today's time, the kids in Bozeman, young and old, are encouraging and kind. They work hard to get good grades and do well in sports and life. We all learn at an early age that we have to work hard and pursue our dreams. I'm currently in high school and I have gone to both public and private schools in Bozeman, and have enjoyed both! It can be difficult sometimes for kids who are not used to actually having to do their homework or study for tests and quizzes and be active in their school community. But the students and staff are friendly and always there to listen or lend a hand. Bozeman Senior High is ranked number one in the state of Montana for graduating students. Sports is also another large part of the full education system in the town. We're often in the state championships and sometimes we even win, but all of that comes from hard work, practice, and trust from the teams, peers, coaches, parents, and the community as a whole. But if you're not really into the sports scene, don't fret because the arts and other clubs are another huge part of the school. There are multiple choirs at the high school alone, and a huge orchestra and a band that often travel around the country playing and competing. I'm not really sure how many art classes are offered at BHS (bozeman high) but I know that there are quite a few. One of my best friends is always raving on how awesome the art opportunities are at the school and in town. Theater is incredible here! Most everyone in Bozeman enjoys a good play put on by excited young (and older) actors. Whether it's held at the Ellen Theater downtown, The Wilson Auditorium or the recently built theater at Petra Academy, (there are others too, those are just to name a few). We often host acting, dance, musical, and opera companies to our little town. Even famous singers, comedians, and celebrities are always stopping by to visit. The popular singer/songwriter John Mayer is originally from Paradise Valley, which is just over the Bozeman Pass and 30 minutes out of town. Mayer has been spotted a few times in Bozeman, but it's never made it on the news or anything. Which I think is why so many famous people enjoy it here. We're laid back, and of course we're excited when celebrities come to our town, but we also know that they've come here to enjoy Montana, not to be swarmed by paparazzi. Parts of the movie A River Runs Through It were filmed in Bozeman. I even know some people who were asked to be extras in the film! Some of the scenes took place in the well-known and loved Story Mansion on Wilson. And when it premiered here in town, my mom even got to sit next to Brad Pitt. She said that he was shorter than she had thought, but also nicer than she would have imagined. It's a different kind of living here, sure it's cold (two weeks ago it was -44 degrees Fahrenheit at my house, which is in the valley!), and icy, and snowy; but it's also beautiful and warms up quickly in the summer. We need the warmer summers to do all the activities most of Bozo's citizens enjoy, like hiking, camping, rock climbing, running, biking, kayaking, water skiing, horseback riding, going on picnics, relaxing with family and friends at the lake, and so much other stuff! It's a blast to live in Bozeman. I've found that in other towns I've been to, you rarely ever see people biking to work or school or just for fun, but in Bozeman it's quite popular. Bozeman is really active, energetic, organic, and green. We have farmer's markets throughout the year, often times we grow our own food, we partake in the community gardens or in our own, we like homegrown, homemade, organic foods and clothes. We don't like to take the easy way out, we like to find solutions that best fit the community and the world. We're green and we're proud of it. We like to recycle and reuse things. There are even stores that reuse things, like Goodwill, Sack's Thrift Avenue, the Catwalk, Cactus Records, Upscale Resale (sometimes referred to as ReCouture), and others that support the green movement! We like to support our local businesses as they are a huge part of our lives, even if it means spending a few extra cents or having to deal with the energetic but adorable owner's puppy. We're a college town, we are always finding new things to support or voice our opinion on. There are those who are more conservative and others who are more outgoing in the world, but somehow we have found a way to balance it all and work together. We support our people especially when it's against all odds, like who would have thought that a nice and genuine man with a sweet family that came from a modest home would be a Congressman? I personally know Congressman Steve Daines and his family and can attest that he is looking out for his people, and that he will always be doing right by his community. With a lot of dreaming and imagination and some elbow grease, we can all see that even us small towners can become whoever and whatever we like. I think each time someone new steps foot into Bozeman, they can see the inspiration and love we all have for our home. These are just a modest few of the reasons why I love my hometown of Bozeman, Montana. While nobody is perfect, we're pretty darn close. :) p.s. And no Sheldon, it's not Bozite, it's Bozemanites (reference to a tv show) :)

(Sorry, this is really quite long and I didn't even get to share all the beauty of my town. Read if you like, I'm sure you'll get the gist of my opinion in the first few paragraphs! :) Have a nice day!!) Where do I begin? There are honestly so many great things to say about Bozeman. Some people like to think that the people here are snobby and rich and rude; and the world isn't perfect, there will always be people in every town that are like this. But the general population is not. We are however helpful, kind, energetic, caring and loving. There are so many non-profits and helping businesses that are eager to help out those who are in need of some extra care, whether they are members of Bozeman's community or they reside elsewhere. Some of these include but are not limited to: Habitat for Humanity, the Food Bank, the Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter, Family Promise, Eagle Mount, various churches, Zoe Women's Center, Hopa Mountain, the HRDC, shelters for the homeless, and so many others! The citizens of Bozeman are always willing to give an extra hand, whether it be to hold a door open for some folks or to help build a home, or any way of providing for those who need it. Bozeman isn't just about the snooty-snoo upscale restaurants and boutiques, while those are fun to spend some time in, we also take care of our fellow people. Bozeman is often thought of as one of the most expensive places to live in Montana, and while there is some truth to this, most people didn't just get their lives handed to them on a silver platter. Bozeman is made up of hardworking diligent people, who worked to get to where they are now. They are able to go beyond providing the necessities for their family, but this does not mean that their children are spoiled or snobby. Speaking from experience, in today's time, the kids in Bozeman, young and old, are encouraging and kind. They work hard to get good grades and do well in sports and life. We all learn at an early age that we have to work hard and pursue our dreams. I'm currently in high school and I have gone to both public and private schools in Bozeman, and have enjoyed both! It can be difficult sometimes for kids who are not used to actually having to do their homework or study for tests and quizzes and be active in their school community. But the students and staff are friendly and always there to listen or lend a hand. Bozeman Senior High is ranked number one in the state of Montana for graduating students. Sports is also another large part of the full education system in the town. We're often in the state championships and sometimes we even win, but all of that comes from hard work, practice, and trust from the teams, peers, coaches, parents, and the community as a whole. But if you're not really into the sports scene, don't fret because the arts and other clubs are another huge part of the school. There are multiple choirs at the high school alone, and a huge orchestra and a band that often travel around the country playing and competing. I'm not really sure how many art classes are offered at BHS (bozeman high) but I know that there are quite a few. One of my best friends is always raving on how awesome the art opportunities are at the school and in town. Theater is incredible here! Most everyone in Bozeman enjoys a good play put on by excited young (and older) actors. Whether it's held at the Ellen Theater downtown, The Wilson Auditorium or the recently built theater at Petra Academy, (there are others too, those are just to name a few). We often host acting, dance, musical, and opera companies to our little town. Even famous singers, comedians, and celebrities are always stopping by to visit. The popular singer/songwriter John Mayer is originally from Paradise Valley, which is just over the Bozeman Pass and 30 minutes out of town. Mayer has been spotted a few times in Bozeman, but it's never made it on the news or anything. Which I think is why so many famous people enjoy it here. We're laid back, and of course we're excited when celebrities come to our town, but we also know that they've come here to enjoy Montana, not to be swarmed by paparazzi. Parts of the movie A River Runs Through It were filmed in Bozeman. I even know some people who were asked to be extras in the film! Some of the scenes took place in the well-known and loved Story Mansion on Wilson. And when it premiered here in town, my mom even got to sit next to Brad Pitt. She said that he was shorter than she had thought, but also nicer than she would have imagined. It's a different kind of living here, sure it's cold (two weeks ago it was -44 degrees Fahrenheit at my house, which is in the valley!), and icy, and snowy; but it's also beautiful and warms up quickly in the summer. We need the warmer summers to do all the activities most of Bozo's citizens enjoy, like hiking, camping, rock climbing, running, biking, kayaking, water skiing, horseback riding, going on picnics, relaxing with family and friends at the lake, and so much other stuff! It's a blast to live in Bozeman. I've found that in other towns I've been to, you rarely ever see people biking to work or school or just for fun, but in Bozeman it's quite popular. Bozeman is really active, energetic, organic, and green. We have farmer's markets throughout the year, often times we grow our own food, we partake in the community gardens or in our own, we like homegrown, homemade, organic foods and clothes. We don't like to take the easy way out, we like to find solutions that best fit the community and the world. We're green and we're proud of it. We like to recycle and reuse things. There are even stores that reuse things, like Goodwill, Sack's Thrift Avenue, the Catwalk, Cactus Records, Upscale Resale (sometimes referred to as ReCouture), and others that support the green movement! We like to support our local businesses as they are a huge part of our lives, even if it means spending a few extra cents or having to deal with the energetic but adorable owner's puppy. We're a college town, we are always finding new things to support or voice our opinion on. There are those who are more conservative and others who are more outgoing in the world, but somehow we have found a way to balance it all and work together. We support our people especially when it's against all odds, like who would have thought that a nice and genuine man with a sweet family that came from a modest home would be a Congressman? I personally know Congressman Steve Daines and his family and can attest that he is looking out for his people, and that he will always be doing right by his community. With a lot of dreaming and imagination and some elbow grease, we can all see that even us small towners can become whoever and whatever we like. I think each time someone new steps foot into Bozeman, they can see the inspiration and love we all have for our home. These are just a modest few of the reasons why I love my hometown of Bozeman, Montana. While nobody is perfect, we're pretty darn close. :) p.s. And no Sheldon, it's not Bozite, it's Bozemanites (reference to a tv show) :)

(Sorry, this is really quite long and I didn't even get to share all the beauty of my town. Read if you like, I'm sure you'll get the gist of my opinion in the first few paragraphs! :) Have a nice day!!) Where do I begin? There are honestly so many great things to say about Bozeman. Some people like to think that the people here are snobby and rich and rude; and the world isn't perfect, there will always be people in every town that are like this. But the general population is not. We are however helpful, kind, energetic, caring and loving. There are so many non-profits and helping businesses that are eager to help out those who are in need of some extra care, whether they are members of Bozeman's community or they reside elsewhere. Some of these include but are not limited to: Habitat for Humanity, the Food Bank, the Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter, Family Promise, Eagle Mount, various churches, Zoe Women's Center, Hopa Mountain, the HRDC, shelters for the homeless, and so many others! The citizens of Bozeman are always willing to give an extra hand, whether it be to hold a door open for some folks or to help build a home, or any way of providing for those who need it. Bozeman isn't just about the snooty-snoo upscale restaurants and boutiques, while those are fun to spend some time in, we also take care of our fellow people. Bozeman is often thought of as one of the most expensive places to live in Montana, and while there is some truth to this, most people didn't just get their lives handed to them on a silver platter. Bozeman is made up of hardworking diligent people, who worked to get to where they are now. They are able to go beyond providing the necessities for their family, but this does not mean that their children are spoiled or snobby. Speaking from experience, in today's time, the kids in Bozeman, young and old, are encouraging and kind. They work hard to get good grades and do well in sports and life. We all learn at an early age that we have to work hard and pursue our dreams. I'm currently in high school and I have gone to both public and private schools in Bozeman, and have enjoyed both! It can be difficult sometimes for kids who are not used to actually having to do their homework or study for tests and quizzes and be active in their school community. But the students and staff are friendly and always there to listen or lend a hand. Bozeman Senior High is ranked number one in the state of Montana for graduating students. Sports is also another large part of the full education system in the town. We're often in the state championships and sometimes we even win, but all of that comes from hard work, practice, and trust from the teams, peers, coaches, parents, and the community as a whole. But if you're not really into the sports scene, don't fret because the arts and other clubs are another huge part of the school. There are multiple choirs at the high school alone, and a huge orchestra and a band that often travel around the country playing and competing. I'm not really sure how many art classes are offered at BHS (bozeman high) but I know that there are quite a few. One of my best friends is always raving on how awesome the art opportunities are at the school and in town. Theater is incredible here! Most everyone in Bozeman enjoys a good play put on by excited young (and older) actors. Whether it's held at the Ellen Theater downtown, The Wilson Auditorium or the recently built theater at Petra Academy, (there are others too, those are just to name a few). We often host acting, dance, musical, and opera companies to our little town. Even famous singers, comedians, and celebrities are always stopping by to visit. The popular singer/songwriter John Mayer is originally from Paradise Valley, which is just over the Bozeman Pass and 30 minutes out of town. Mayer has been spotted a few times in Bozeman, but it's never made it on the news or anything. Which I think is why so many famous people enjoy it here. We're laid back, and of course we're excited when celebrities come to our town, but we also know that they've come here to enjoy Montana, not to be swarmed by paparazzi. Parts of the movie A River Runs Through It were filmed in Bozeman. I even know some people who were asked to be extras in the film! Some of the scenes took place in the well-known and loved Story Mansion on Wilson. And when it premiered here in town, my mom even got to sit next to Brad Pitt. She said that he was shorter than she had thought, but also nicer than she would have imagined. It's a different kind of living here, sure it's cold (two weeks ago it was -44 degrees Fahrenheit at my house, which is in the valley!), and icy, and snowy; but it's also beautiful and warms up quickly in the summer. We need the warmer summers to do all the activities most of Bozo's citizens enjoy, like hiking, camping, rock climbing, running, biking, kayaking, water skiing, horseback riding, going on picnics, relaxing with family and friends at the lake, and so much other stuff! It's a blast to live in Bozeman. I've found that in other towns I've been to, you rarely ever see people biking to work or school or just for fun, but in Bozeman it's quite popular. Bozeman is really active, energetic, organic, and green. We have farmer's markets throughout the year, often times we grow our own food, we partake in the community gardens or in our own, we like homegrown, homemade, organic foods and clothes. We don't like to take the easy way out, we like to find solutions that best fit the community and the world. We're green and we're proud of it. We like to recycle and reuse things. There are even stores that reuse things, like Goodwill, Sack's Thrift Avenue, the Catwalk, Cactus Records, Upscale Resale (sometimes referred to as ReCouture), and others that support the green movement! We like to support our local businesses as they are a huge part of our lives, even if it means spending a few extra cents or having to deal with the energetic but adorable owner's puppy. We're a college town, we are always finding new things to support or voice our opinion on. There are those who are more conservative and others who are more outgoing in the world, but somehow we have found a way to balance it all and work together. We support our people especially when it's against all odds, like who would have thought that a nice and genuine man with a sweet family that came from a modest home would be a Congressman? I personally know Congressman Steve Daines and his family and can attest that he is looking out for his people, and that he will always be doing right by his community. With a lot of dreaming and imagination and some elbow grease, we can all see that even us small towners can become whoever and whatever we like. I think each time someone new steps foot into Bozeman, they can see the inspiration and love we all have for our home. These are just a modest few of the reasons why I love my hometown of Bozeman, Montana. While nobody is perfect, we're pretty darn close. :) p.s. And no Sheldon, it's not Bozite, it's Bozemanites (reference to a tv show) :)

(Sorry, this is really quite long and I didn't even get to share all the beauty of my town. Read if you like, I'm sure you'll get the gist of my opinion in the first few paragraphs! :) Have a nice day!!) Where do I begin? There are honestly so many great things to say about Bozeman. Some people like to think that the people here are snobby and rich and rude; and the world isn't perfect, there will always be people in every town that are like this. But the general population is not. We are however helpful, kind, energetic, caring and loving. There are so many non-profits and helping businesses that are eager to help out those who are in need of some extra care, whether they are members of Bozeman's community or they reside elsewhere. Some of these include but are not limited to: Habitat for Humanity, the Food Bank, the Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter, Family Promise, Eagle Mount, various churches, Zoe Women's Center, Hopa Mountain, the HRDC, shelters for the homeless, and so many others! The citizens of Bozeman are always willing to give an extra hand, whether it be to hold a door open for some folks or to help build a home, or any way of providing for those who need it. Bozeman isn't just about the snooty-snoo upscale restaurants and boutiques, while those are fun to spend some time in, we also take care of our fellow people. Bozeman is often thought of as one of the most expensive places to live in Montana, and while there is some truth to this, most people didn't just get their lives handed to them on a silver platter. Bozeman is made up of hardworking diligent people, who worked to get to where they are now. They are able to go beyond providing the necessities for their family, but this does not mean that their children are spoiled or snobby. Speaking from experience, in today's time, the kids in Bozeman, young and old, are encouraging and kind. They work hard to get good grades and do well in sports and life. We all learn at an early age that we have to work hard and pursue our dreams. I'm currently in high school and I have gone to both public and private schools in Bozeman, and have enjoyed both! It can be difficult sometimes for kids who are not used to actually having to do their homework or study for tests and quizzes and be active in their school community. But the students and staff are friendly and always there to listen or lend a hand. Bozeman Senior High is ranked number one in the state of Montana for graduating students. Sports is also another large part of the full education system in the town. We're often in the state championships and sometimes we even win, but all of that comes from hard work, practice, and trust from the teams, peers, coaches, parents, and the community as a whole. But if you're not really into the sports scene, don't fret because the arts and other clubs are another huge part of the school. There are multiple choirs at the high school alone, and a huge orchestra and a band that often travel around the country playing and competing. I'm not really sure how many art classes are offered at BHS (bozeman high) but I know that there are quite a few. One of my best friends is always raving on how awesome the art opportunities are at the school and in town. Theater is incredible here! Most everyone in Bozeman enjoys a good play put on by excited young (and older) actors. Whether it's held at the Ellen Theater downtown, The Wilson Auditorium or the recently built theater at Petra Academy, (there are others too, those are just to name a few). We often host acting, dance, musical, and opera companies to our little town. Even famous singers, comedians, and celebrities are always stopping by to visit. The popular singer/songwriter John Mayer is originally from Paradise Valley, which is just over the Bozeman Pass and 30 minutes out of town. Mayer has been spotted a few times in Bozeman, but it's never made it on the news or anything. Which I think is why so many famous people enjoy it here. We're laid back, and of course we're excited when celebrities come to our town, but we also know that they've come here to enjoy Montana, not to be swarmed by paparazzi. Parts of the movie A River Runs Through It were filmed in Bozeman. I even know some people who were asked to be extras in the film! Some of the scenes took place in the well-known and loved Story Mansion on Wilson. And when it premiered here in town, my mom even got to sit next to Brad Pitt. She said that he was shorter than she had thought, but also nicer than she would have imagined. It's a different kind of living here, sure it's cold (two weeks ago it was -44 degrees Fahrenheit at my house, which is in the valley!), and icy, and snowy; but it's also beautiful and warms up quickly in the summer. We need the warmer summers to do all the activities most of Bozo's citizens enjoy, like hiking, camping, rock climbing, running, biking, kayaking, water skiing, horseback riding, going on picnics, relaxing with family and friends at the lake, and so much other stuff! It's a blast to live in Bozeman. I've found that in other towns I've been to, you rarely ever see people biking to work or school or just for fun, but in Bozeman it's quite popular. Bozeman is really active, energetic, organic, and green. We have farmer's markets throughout the year, often times we grow our own food, we partake in the community gardens or in our own, we like homegrown, homemade, organic foods and clothes. We don't like to take the easy way out, we like to find solutions that best fit the community and the world. We're green and we're proud of it. We like to recycle and reuse things. There are even stores that reuse things, like Goodwill, Sack's Thrift Avenue, the Catwalk, Cactus Records, Upscale Resale (sometimes referred to as ReCouture), and others that support the green movement! We like to support our local businesses as they are a huge part of our lives, even if it means spending a few extra cents or having to deal with the energetic but adorable owner's puppy. We're a college town, we are always finding new things to support or voice our opinion on. There are those who are more conservative and others who are more outgoing in the world, but somehow we have found a way to balance it all and work together. We support our people especially when it's against all odds, like who would have thought that a nice and genuine man with a sweet family that came from a modest home would be a Congressman? I personally know Congressman Steve Daines and his family and can attest that he is looking out for his people, and that he will always be doing right by his community. With a lot of dreaming and imagination and some elbow grease, we can all see that even us small towners can become whoever and whatever we like. I think each time someone new steps foot into Bozeman, they can see the inspiration and love we all have for our home. These are just a modest few of the reasons why I love my hometown of Bozeman, Montana. While nobody is perfect, we're pretty darn close. :) p.s. And no Sheldon, it's not Bozite, it's Bozemanites (reference to a tv show) :)

I have lived in Bozeman for over 25 years. It is very dry there (low huidity), rains infrequently. It is a hot summer, Fall can be cold or warm, winter starts anytime from October to December, ends in May. May is usually cold. June is the wettest month. It can snow a lot or a little in winter, and temps can rane from 45 degrees to 45 degrees below zero in the winter months. It has a lot of sunny days, even when cold. There is a little Spring, not much.
Beautiful God's country!

I have lived in Bozeman area for eight years. My observation of Bozeman is seen through the eyes of someone who has lived, worked and traveled much of the world. I find the people of Bozeman very friendly and welcoming. The town has a western charm and a relaxed attitude. I am amused by those few commenting that Bozeman is not friendly. Have they ever lived in a major metropolitan area? Or do they bring an attitude that brings out a less than friendly response? I agree with those comments that Bozeman is an area that offers plenty of lower paying jobs and higher paid positions are in short supply. Working via telecommunting, having a retirement income or wealthy are nice options if living in Bozeman. Persons I meet come from various geographical locations making Bozeman a rather cosmopolitan town for its size. Regarding cost of living Bozeman is a bargain compared to major metropolitan areas, however, it is not inexpensive. How one views Bozeman costs is mostly from one's past experience. A small town person may find on the pricey side. If one loves outdoor activities this town is spectacular. All seasons offer so much to do. On the other hand if one does not like any outdoor winter sports I would suggest thinking long and hard about moving to Bozeman. Winter is beautiful and long! Summer and autumn are stunning; rival any place in the world. To sum up Bozeman has the best of both worlds - enough amenities for a pleasant and comfortable life with stimulating activities and surrounded by gorgeous wilderness; views that will take your breath away. I decided to make my home here after decades of traveling the world because of the perfect blend of civility and wilderness.

I was born and raised in Bozeman--which in my case means that I've lived most of 35 years here. I've been out-and-about for brief stints in Georgia, Utah, and California, but the vast majority of my life has been spent here in Bozeman. It's a nice enough place, but it has some big downsides. Most people are drawn here for the "four seasons," the snow sports, college, or just to get away from the big city. For all the above, Bozeman is a great place to be. But be aware that the cost of living is above the national average, people are somewhat exclusive to their existing circles of friends (i.e., people aren't tremendously social here), winter is long and generally pretty rough (lots of snow, cold, ice, and gray), and "good" jobs are in short supply. There are great jobs available at the local Oracle facility and a couple other "high-tech" firms, but generally speaking because there are so many people who want to live in a place like Bozeman, wages are depressed. Count on taking a 20-50% pay cut to live here. Yep, ouch.
The 1.5 good things about Bozeman from my perspective: crime is rare here, which is reflected in the fact that many people leave their cars and homes unlocked (crazy, I know). And summer here is BEAUTIFUL. Warm, sunny, with lots of gorgeous nature to bask in. It's also, unfortunately, short.
In my opinion, there are lots of other towns (Salt Lake City, UT, for example) which offer much of what Bozeman does with about the same standard of living, low crime rates, even more outdoor stuff to do because of the high mountains nearby, and much better wages and job availability. There's not much to recommend Bozeman, unless you really like the small town feel, don't mind the pay cut or are independently wealthy (or work remotely), like winter, and love the lack of sales tax. Just my two cents.

I love Bozeman. It has the best farmer's markets, sense of community, schools and quality of life. I feel really blessed to live here with our family. I can't say enough good about Bozeman. And no sales tax!

PROS: Scenery,Snow,Dog friendly,Decent Beer,MSU,Airport,Wal-mart
CONS:: Racisism abounds!,Generally Rude pissed off vibe among people,you say good morning,they either look @ you wierd or ignore you totally, Lack of Cultural Diversity,Snooty,too many Subaru outbacks,rent is thru the roof(1 bed rm apt 850)know it alls,Miserable weather(sometimes)Drivers License office gave me the 3rd degree(birth certificate,Passport,SS card(geez, ol'lady?)
The Last best Place? LAST being the Operative word!
I lived in the 1st (& only) best place,and will return as soon as I take these Hicks' money, cause they're too afraid to see it, Ha ha!
AUSTIN,TEXAS BITCHES!!
SUMMARY: Anti-semitic! Whiteville,Yuppy Town,Backwoods,Anti-Progress City Politics,Hunter-Kill(stupid)attitude,unevolved. The old west is dead people,lets move on! Horses cost money,get a dirt bike.....Thanks (No wonder Kazinski was pissed,lol)
Montana is so Square......'cept for Idaho, Shoved up it ass!!

Lived in Bozeman from 2007-2008. The good: Stunning scenery, fresh air, ultra clean. Courteous drivers, friendly, honest people. Montana State is a fantastic school, very underrated. The bad: The people in Bozeman think they already know everything, not open to great new ideas. The cost of living is very high - if you aren't wealthy you will struggle. Good jobs are hard to get - a few old families seem to control a lot of the opportunity. The economy is based too much on fancy things like million dollar custom homes and snow sports. Getting the City of Bozeman to approve a building permit will drive you crazy, and probably broke. Flying in and out of Bozeman is very expensive. I will retire in the Southeast USA, but I wouldn't mind having a Summer home in Bozeman.

It's so strange to read one review of Boze having rude people. In the Bozeman I live in, people smile and wave for no reason at all. I can ride my bike downtown and to the library. I can go to two amazing farmer's markets, one on Tues in Bogert, one in the fairgrounds every saturday. There's a great art center at the Emerson, a world class and always fun Museum of the rockies...the food is great, and we won't even get started on the amazing fishing and play areas that surround us. Maybe you are trying to keep the secret of living in a such a great place with a high quality of life. with the real estate drop, you can find affordable housing too. Bozeman rocks!!

This is the most friendly and civil place I have had the chance to live in. Warm seasons here are great. Winter seems long, cold and confining for a retired single person, but life is what you make it and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the community even in winter and even if you don't participate in winter activities.

Bozeman is an odd mix. Original residents who are pretty narrow minded and not very excepting, newer residents who tend to be in technical fields or very environmental, and the student population. I have lived in the county area around Bozeman for about 15 years. One thing I can say is folks in most the neighborhoods do not like change. Be aware if you do something your neighbors do not like you will hear about it. Just about everyone in Bozeman has a strong opinion and voices it. It tends to be on the conservative side of politics. Some folks can be snooty - there is "money" in Bozeman. The Bridger Canyon area boosts mostly multi million dollar homes and then there is Big Sky to the south.
There are postings here that students do not feel accepted. Some of that has been caused by a few bad seeds that have not been the best behaved around town. Many of my neighbors are professors at MSU and have students over to their homes. Many are great responsible young people, others speed in residential streets were children play, are loud and party at all hours. It all depends on the experience that residents have had with some students and it has caused friction.
Housing is high compared to other places. There are tract homes on the west side, older historic homes downtown, large lots with homes on the south side, and then very large luxury homes in surrounding areas. In the 2009 economy prices have dropped, but not by large percentages. It is still a pricey area and it costs to live here.
There are major retailers. Home Depot, Lowes, Costco, Target, Petco, CostPlus, Walmart Supercenter, about 6 large grocery stores and many local stores. Downtown is galleries, boutiques and upscale dining - nicely restored and a bit touristy. Being the largest town with a regional airport to Yellowstone there is regular tourist visitation. It can be busy in town on weekends.
I am not certain about lack of culture mentioned. There are movies, plays, concerts, fairs, farmers markets, and special events. Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and hunting. To me it's lots to do if you want too. If you are from NY, Chicago or such then you'll probably find it lacking in performance arts.
The biggest thing people moving here should consider is the weather. Spring and fall are stunning. Summers are usually mild, but can be in the 100's late Jul and early August. At 4800' the west sun hangs in the sky for hours and bakes you in the summer. Winter is TOUGH. It can be in the single digits temperature and humidity for weeks. Mid week you can expect -10 to -20 for at least a few weeks. It is a dry semi arid climate. Not as green and foresty as many expect. Bozeman lays in a valley with two mountain ranges to the northeast and south. The views are great and can draw you in.
It is not the perfect place to live, but it is pretty darn nice. I'd suggest to anyone to visit in all seasons over a year to get a real feel of the town.

Bozeman is a beautiful town. There is quite a bit of culture here. There are lots of outdoor activities. I went to college at Montana State and got a good education. However, this town is not a good place to live.
For starters, the cost of living is high. Rental in most apartments is what most people pay for house payments in most towns. There is lots of job competition here as college students tend to hang out years after they graduate looking for a job. The traffic here is horrible because there was no planning and the infrastructure was not built for the size population the town has. People here usually drive well under the speed limit. I also might add that people here are some the rudest I have encountered ANYWHERE in the US.
Bozeman has a good university. However, if you come here to college be warned the town is very anti-student. You will need to stay on campus to work and live. Businesses will often not hire students and landlords will either not rent to them or treat them like second-class citizens.

I went to Montana State University. It is a good college, and I would recommend it to anyone. However,that is the only reason to live in Bozeman. If you come to college, you would be wise to live and work on campus the entire time. Here is why:
Bozeman has an insanely high cost of living. Keep in mind that most people are working very low-paying jobs and working 2 or 3 of them. If you are a college student, you will have a hard time finding a job off campus, most people will not hire students. Job competition is fierce because many students hang around town years after they graduate.
Unless you are making a minimum of $100,000 a year, you will probably never afford a home in Bozeman, maybe in Belgrade, probably in Manhattan or Three Forks. Renting is also very expensive. Most rentals cost as much as a house payment in most cities. Many of the landlords in town are horrible slumlords. Most will not rent to college students and many of those that do are some of the worst slumlords. I knew people who had property that ended up being condemned.
In general, the people in Bozeman are very unfriendly. Many of them have a better-than-thou attitude about themselves and have no basic manners. As mentioned above, the town has a very anti-student attitude.
Traffic is also obscene for a town this size. There was absolutely no planning and the growth is concentrated on one street that in a matter of 10 years has had almost every big box store imaginable built on it. People usually drive well under the speed limit and there is traffic every hour of the day as many people living here are trust fund babies who don't work.
Bozeman is a beautiful town, it is nice to visit, but I would recommend only doing that. As a single person it was bad enough, I cannot imagine what it would be like to raise a family there.

How are Southerners treated in Bozeman? I am in Alabama, lived in most of the Southern states, and am thinking of moving to Bozeman.
I lived in Michigan once and they didn't take too well to Southerners, Those folks were WEIRD! Hated it there.
Thanks!
TS

So how would Southerners be accepted into Bozeman?
I am considering a move there from Alabama, have also lived in Texas, LA, and Arklansas, so am a true Southerner here. LOL!
Lived in Michigan once and those people were WEIRD! They didn't take to Southerners at all.
I am a single mom of two little ones, so looking at this to better our lives and move closer to the kid's family. I am college educated and a professional, but not a snob by any means....southern hospitality you know.
Just curious. Thanks!